Queen’s Flight BAe 146

Help Us Put Historic RAF Aircraft ZE700 on Public Display

The BAe 146 aircraft, registration ZE700, has played a distinguished and historic role in Royal Air Force service. Operated by No. 32 Squadron RAF — The Royal Squadron — the aircraft spent decades transporting members of the Royal Family, senior government ministers, and Ministry of Defence officials around the UK and overseas.

After nearly 40 years of service, ZE700 made its final flight on 16 March 2022 and was retired to St Athan, South Wales. It is now in the care of the South Wales Aviation Museum, where it is being preserved for future generations.

The Challenge We Face

Since receiving ZE700, our dedicated team of volunteers has placed the aircraft into storage and preservation while preparing for its permanent display. However, recent changes to the site mean the museum is now separated from the airfield by a newly constructed road and security gates.

To move the aircraft into its display position, we must:

• Prepare the aircraft for transport
• Use specialist lifting equipment to raise it over two security gates
• Safely transport it a short distance to its new home

This is a complex and costly operation — and as a volunteer-run museum, we need your help to make it happen.

Why ZE700 Matters

Delivered to the RAF on 14 June 1983, ZE700 was among the first BAe 146 aircraft allocated to The Queen’s Flight. Over more than three decades, it became a familiar sight on royal and government duties.

In June 1994, the aircraft was involved in a runway overrun incident at Islay Airport — a well-documented event in its service history. Following repair and continued service, ZE700 went on to complete many more years of operational flying before its retirement.

Its final flight to St Athan was conducted by Wing Commander Chadwick, Commanding Officer of 32 Squadron, marking the end of an era for this unique aircraft.

How You Can Help

We are asking supporters, aviation enthusiasts, veterans, and members of the public to help us preserve this important part of British aviation heritage.

Please consider making a donation via our GoFundMe page:
https://gofund.me/78da1ddf

Every contribution, no matter the size, will directly support the safe relocation and display of ZE700.

Any funds raised beyond the cost of the move will go toward preserving and bringing other significant aircraft to the museum, including examples such as the Supermarine Swift, Bristol Britannia, BAE Hawk, and Westland Sea King. However, our immediate focus is ensuring ZE700 can be placed on public display as soon as possible.

The South Wales Aviation Museum is growing rapidly and aims to become a major aviation heritage attraction in South Wales. With your support, we can ensure that ZE700 continues to inspire future generations.

Thank you from all of us at SWAM and our dedicated volunteers.